China has intensified its control over the entrance to the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea by deploying ships and a barrier, as revealed by satellite images obtained by Reuters. The Scarborough Shoal is a highly contested maritime area in Asia, raising concerns among diplomats and analysts about potential armed conflicts.
The latest satellite images captured four Chinese fishing boats, a naval or coast guard ship, and a newly established floating barrier at the entrance to the shoal. In response, the Philippines has dispatched its coast guard and fisheries vessels to support its fishermen, who often face challenges from larger Chinese patrols.
Vantor, formerly known as Maxar Technologies, reported the presence of a probable Chinese naval or coast guard patrol vessel near the entrance on April 10. The Scarborough Shoal, located within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, is claimed by both the Philippines and China, with the latter recently approving the creation of a national nature reserve, causing concerns among Philippine security officials.
According to Jay Tarriela, a Philippine coast guard spokesperson, China installed a 352-meter floating barrier at the shoal’s entrance on April 10 and April 11, with Chinese maritime militia vessels observed within and outside the shoal. Despite the ongoing tensions, sovereignty over the shoal remains unresolved, with China effectively controlling the area while Philippine boats continue to operate there.
Military cooperation between the Philippines and the United States has increased, with joint drills conducted at the Scarborough Shoal. These activities have intensified under Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who seeks closer ties with the U.S. in response to China’s presence in the South China Sea.
The situation at the Scarborough Shoal is closely monitored amid broader tensions and fears that China may exploit distractions elsewhere. China has maintained a presence at the shoal since 2012, and disputes over fishing activities persist between the two countries.
A significant ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 supported Manila’s claims in the South China Sea but did not address sovereignty over the Scarborough Shoal. The court condemned China’s actions at the shoal, stating that its blockade violated international law due to its historical significance as a fishing ground for multiple nations.